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Sikorsky-Boeing's SB>1 Defiant loses out on army contract

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Sikorsky-Boeing's SB>1 Defiant loses out on army contract
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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

The Sikorsky SB>1 Defiant helicopter, developed by Sikorsky and Boeing, represented a significant advancement in military aviation. It was designed under the US Army's Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program to replace the aging UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The SB>1 Defiant aimed to enhance speed, maneuverability, and operational flexibility.

However, the US Army selected the Bell V-280 Valor over the SB>1 Defiant for the FLRAA program, ending its development. Despite its cancellation, it remains an important study in modern helicopter design.

The SB>1 Defiant first flew in 2019 as part of a joint project between Sikorsky and Boeing. Originally scheduled for a 2017 flight, it faced delays before its maiden flight at Sikorsky’s West Palm Beach site in March 2019. By December 2020, it had logged 26 flight hours across 31 flights. In October 2021, it achieved a top speed of 247 knots.

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Designed for speed with a cruise capability of up to 250 knots (288 mph), the SB>1 used a coaxial rotor system and rear-mounted pusher propeller to exceed traditional helicopter speeds. However, this was not enough to secure the FLRAA contract as the Bell V-280 Valor offered superior range and speed aligned with future operational needs.

Constructed from composite materials lighter than traditional metals, the SB>1 aimed for increased durability and reduced weight to improve fuel efficiency and mission range. According to All Sciences Proceedings: "Weight Reduction: Lower overall weight means better fuel efficiency and longer mission range." Despite these advantages, the V-280’s tiltrotor configuration provided greater efficiency for long-range missions.

The unique coaxial rotor and pusher propeller design eliminated the need for a tail rotor while improving lift efficiency and forward speeds. Lockheed Martin stated: "Increased Lift Efficiency: Coaxial rotors generate more lift in hover and forward flight."

Although designed for future warfare with features like advanced drive systems and fly-by-wire controls, Lockheed Martin noted that despite its strengths: "the US Army ultimately chose the Bell V-280 Valor for its greater range." The SB>1 now resides at Fort Novosel's Army Aviation Museum in Alabama.

While not entering service with the US Army, insights gained from developing this ambitious helicopter will likely influence future military aviation advancements.

Organizations Included in this History
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